Photochemistry and a new catalyst could make fertilizer more sustainable
Georgia Tech engineers are working to make fertilizer more sustainable—from production to productive reuse of the runoff after application—and a pair of new studies is offering promising avenues at both ends of the process......»»
Here’s how Michelin plans to make its tires more renewable
The tire company wants a completely sustainable tire by 2050. Enlarge / Tires are a growing source of microplastic pollution. Michelin says it wants to change that. (credit: Getty Images) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—it's mo.....»»
Food safety, quality review summarizes sustainable seafood preservation to minimize waste, losses
Seafood is in high demand across several regions of the world. Moreover, this demand for seafood is expected to surge by a whopping 56% by 2050. Given the high moisture content and susceptibility of seafood to microbial and biochemical decay, it ofte.....»»
Controlling ion transport for a blue energy future: Research highlights the potential of nanopore membranes
Blue energy has the potential to provide a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. In simple terms, it involves harnessing the energy produced when the ions in a salt solution move from high to low concentrations......»»
New genomic tools for three modern cotton varieties could guide future breeding efforts
We live in an ever-changing and growing world. Changing climates, emerging pests, and other environmental stressors put pressure on the cash crops that feed and fuel the world. As we race to meet the growing demand for sustainable and high-quality fo.....»»
Q&A: How to make sustainable products faster with artificial intelligence and automation
By modifying the genomes of plants and microorganisms, synthetic biologists can design biological systems that meet a specification, such as producing valuable chemical compounds, making bacteria sensitive to light, or programming bacterial cells to.....»»
New sulfur-free catalyst enables efficient green diesel production
Green diesel, a blend of diesel-grade hydrocarbons derived from renewable oils such as vegetable oils and animal fats, offers a promising alternative to traditional petroleum diesel. With a chemical composition similar to petroleum diesel, it integra.....»»
Can marketing classes teach sustainability? Four key insights
Young adults have an important role to play in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Adopted by all UN member nations, the SDGs offer a frame for an ambitious plan to transform our world for the better......»»
Chemists Chase ‘Clean’ Ammonia to Replace Shipping Fuel
President Biden’s climate law is funding “green ammonia” projects in hopes of using the chemical to more cleanly power the grid, fuel cargo ships and make fertilizer.....»»
Study details strategies for successful urban tree planting initiatives
Collaborative research led by the University of Massachusetts Amherst outlines five essential themes to promote equitable and sustainable urban tree planting initiatives (TPIs), which is especially timely given the $1.5 billion for urban and communit.....»»
BMW, Mercedes, Volvo turn to natural fibers to make cars more sustainable
Demand is so strong for products made using alternative materials that interiors giant Forvia has created a stand-alone company to address the need......»»
New resource pinpoints inner workings of sorghum plant cells for designing better bioenergy feedstock
Bioenergy sorghum is an important resource for the production of biofuels and bioproducts and a critical component of a sustainable agricultural future. Researchers have been working hard to make this tall, drought-tolerant plant even more productive.....»»
Eyes in the sky: How China"s advanced Earth observation system shapes global progress
China's Earth Observation (EO) System has seen significant progress, evolving into a sophisticated network of satellites supporting various global applications. This system, vital for sustainable development, promises further advancements with new te.....»»
Sustainable, high-performance paper coating material could reduce microplastic pollution
Plastic pollution presents a global challenge that must be solved. In particular, packaging accounts for 30–50% of the total plastic consumption. While paper packaging is eco-friendly, it lacks crucial functionalities like moisture resistance and s.....»»
Climate damage and nature loss are unfairly distributed—and so are the solutions, says researcher
In the fight for a livable planet, we desperately need a fairer distribution of wealth and equal rights for all, argues anthropology professor Marja Spierenburg. She says, "That will also generate broad-based support for sustainable development.".....»»
New catalyst transforms carbon dioxide from industrial emissions into commonly used chemicals
A low-cost, tin-based catalyst can selectively convert carbon dioxide to three widely produced chemicals—ethanol, acetic acid and formic acid......»»
Utilizing machine learning models for new directions in housing planning
Machine learning models for more sustainable and affordable housing in regional areas, assessing bushfire risk as well as consideration for disability, biodiversity and also a place for animals in urban residential settings present new perspectives o.....»»
Powering wearable devices with high-performing carbon nanotube yarns
With the growth of the Internet of Things, sustainable solutions for powering wireless sensors and devices are considered important. Thermoelectric generators, for example, which have the ability to convert waste heat into electricity, can offer a su.....»»
Scientists develop new geochemical "fingerprint" to trace contaminants in fertilizer
An international team of scientists has uncovered toxic metals in mineral phosphate fertilizers worldwide by using a new tool to identify the spread and impact of such contaminants on soil, water resources, and food supply......»»
More efficient bioethanol production might be possible using persimmon tannin to help yeast thrive
While ethanol in alcoholic beverages impairs drinkers' motor functions, it is that same substance that can power motor vehicles in a cleaner, more sustainable manner. What is necessary for the production of ethanol is yeast, but ethanol is among the.....»»
Method accelerates the development of sustainable biomaterials from years to minutes
A study, published in Advanced Materials on May 6, 2024, led by VTT's researchers, introduces a transformative approach that integrates synthetic biology with advanced machine learning and computational techniques to significantly accelerate the deve.....»»